Report: Astros remain potential option for Encarnacion

After outfielder Yoenis Cespedes opened the floodgates of the free-agent market on Tuesday by agreeing to a four-year, $110-million deal with the New York Mets, the Houston Astros - who reportedly were serious bidders for Cespedes - have turned their attention back to another target.

The Astros - who've already shown interest in acquiring designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion during the offseason - remain a potential option for the 33-year-old slugger, reports ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

Separately, both agents and executives told ESPN's Buster Olney that Houston is expected to make a push for upgrades, after losing out on Cespedes.

The Astros have already added outfielder Josh Reddick (4 years, $52 million), pitcher Charlie Morton (2 years, $14 million), and catcher Brian McCann (trade with New York Yankees) during their busy offseason.

With Cespedes off the board, Encarnacion could be considered the biggest free agent available, after he hit 42 home runs and tied for the American League lead in RBIs with 127.

Along with receiving interest from the Astros, Yankees, and Boston Red Sox, Encarnacion has also rejected a four-year, $80-million offer from his former employer, the Toronto Blue Jays.

During 12 seasons in the big leagues, Encarnacion owns a .266/.352/.498 slash line with 310 home runs and 942 RBIs.